Thankyou Cindy. EVERY Guardian/ parent/ woman living/ traveling alone TRUST YOUR INSTINCS PLEASE. And please for your own sanity and safety go on RU-vid and checkout Gavin De BECKER interviews and BOOKS called: Gift Of Fear Protecting the Gift Fearless Beauty bites beast
sketch book - I agree. I think Debecker is someone I saw interviewed on a talk show probably 30 years ago now, and he said, “If confronted and restrained by anyone, NEVER, EVER, let them take you to a second place! The second place is where something bad will happen, meaning fight to the death to NOT allow anyone to take you to a second place because likely your fate can be death there regardless! A predator is more likely to retreat from a “first” location if resisted, than a secluded second place! Stuck with me for life and I raised all my kids to impress on them the same!
Read the book “The Gift of Fear”. Your gut instincts are there for a reason. You can sense danger from subtle signs before consciously knowing why and it should be respected because it can save your life.
Even as a young man, I was always careful where I spent the night alone with at least some protection, early on in a tent and later in a van. At least in a van, you have time to reach for a weapon. But being isolated just add a layer of uncertainty and invitation to somethig possible. Meeting a crazy person is just a matter of chance. It's better to plan your stops knowing you are surrounded by others. There are just too many stories of people being attacked. Stay safe.
In the UK if you carry a weapon for self protection you can get fined quite heavily and if you actually use it you will end up in prison unless you can afford the most expencive lawyers .
That's funny. I am a woman and never have any weapon and still feel safe. Don't have a dog either. To be honest my biggest fear is to be caught by the authorities because it is mostly illegal to sleep anywhere else than campgrounds or camper parking grounds. There are more and more controls here and fines get higher and higher.
Be well. Stay safe out there. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings always. I’m a 43 year old man who lives in the eastern U.S. who has traveled alone a lot. I have found myself in uneasy situations where I have had bad vibes either from the place I was hiking or camping or from a person or people in the area I was at. Men don’t get harassed as much as women, but I have been afraid of some situations before. I knew if I didn’t leave something terrible might happen. Always follow your instincts.
28:04 This. This needs to be said LOUDLY for those in the back. _We are no smarter than any victim who has lost their life, or worse._ People are not victims because of stupidity or naïvety. They are exactly like us.
It's not about itelligence. It's about the fact that one of the biggest dangers to women is men. It's just the simple truth. I don't like it but I know it's the reality. I'm intelligent. I'm still in danger. It's not my fault. It just is.
I’m always so sorry to hear these sorts of reports . As a big bloke I have taken for granted my freedoms. Must admit I’m always conscious of women feeling uncomfortable , will cross the street or turn off onto another path so women don’t feel threatened . That’s really sad but guess it’s what things have come too. I think most women realise that men are fine, it’s just a few and they are a disgrace to decent blokes. I know most of us would do anything to help anybody , male or female ❤️.
I’ve just watched your video to the end. Your statistics are not surprising to me . I spent twenty years as a Police Officer and rarely dealt with situations where a stranger was the offender. I realise that my comments are from a male perspective , but women should never be told what they can’t achieve. The list is endless of women ,who have and continue to achieve greatness. Most decent men will congratulate, celebrate , support and be in awe of what women do. Im personally hugely grateful to one woman ... my Mum , bless her ! 🙏🏻👏.
I dont think he was a nice guy .I think he was trying to lull you into a false sense of security. He should never have come near the van let alone look inside. Life is life and I think you should always prepared for the worse and you should always be alert and listen to your gut feelings And I think that applys to you.go anyware but you must be always be cautious ⚠️ .I speak from experience .stay safe 😂😂❤❤
Yes, but also don't assume daylight is perfectly safe. Be aware of your surroundings and have a backup plan to camp in the event you have to leave. A dog gives a sense of security, but if you get out to let him go potty in the night?
@@serenakoleno9338thank God my dog goes at 11 am, maybe late afternoon, and then in evening about 7p. Never at night. She's not a big water drinker. Males gulp and then have to pee all over the place. She's a great dog for nomad life.
Thank you for sharing your experiences and thoughts. I appreciate your attitude of supporting other women and encouraging us to leave our “ comfort zone” and experience the world. Be happy and safe in your travels!
I have been abused more from family members than strangers! I refuse to let crazy people to stop me fro doing what I want to do. I always am aware of my surroundings and take steps to be safe.
I grew up abused by people we knew. I also grew up in SoCal which is a dumpster fire. I do things like going to my passenger side, putting my stuff in, and then walking around the car to the driver side to get in. Then I know it's all clear. I do lots of things like that because I learned long ago to look over my shoulder.
Please be safe, don’t take unnecessary chances. Evil can appear suddenly and in any kind of place. These are scary stories, they could have turned really bad. God bless you and your dog.
I don't think they are being blamed but it must be said that evil is walking around you every where. Women are targeted by these people over men because they can be intimated much easier [especially if Alone] than men! A single woman camping alone is A screaming invitation for very much badness. Yes, you can travel alone but just know that your potential for negative encounters is so much higher! It's just a fact! So yes, it is a bit naive to do things such as this alone and stats don't mean anything! Foe her to say that "a woman alone" can be applied to other situations such as every day life like work is essentially childish. In the woods alone,you have nobody who is going to respond. I'm just saying, if you're a woman and want to do things such as this, that's great! But, please, please be responsible and stay armed. Ye, A gun! Just forstarters! Become so proficient with it that it's like an extension of your body! Hone your instincts! Sharpen your senses, especially night vision and hearing. Tell someone where you are going and poss n itenerary. Have a backup plan, redundancies! I don't think anyone's blaming women from wanting to do things like thes, epecially not me! I'm just saying, be realistic that you're not gonna change the fact that there are crazy people out there. Evil is out there everywhere a woman alone. You're putting yourself out there in a situation. Unlike a city setting where you have no recourse, no response team, just you, for Gods sakes be armed. Don't be naive be armed. I don't mean justa knife, I mean a gun! If You are one of these staunch opposers of guns. And you don't like the idea of having a gun, don't be doing thdon't be Going Out there because you're setting yourself up fodisaster.
I don't think they are being blamed but it must be said that evil is walking around you every where. Women are targeted by these people over men because they can be intimated much easier [especially if Alone] than men! A single woman camping alone is A screaming invitation for very much badness. Yes, you can travel alone but just know that your potential for negative encounters is so much higher! It's just a fact! So yes, it is a bit naive to do things such as this alone and stats don't mean anything! Foe her to say that "a woman alone" can be applied to other situations such as every day life like work is essentially childish. In the woods alone,you have nobody who is going to respond. I'm just saying, if you're a woman and want to do things such as this, that's great! But, please, please be responsible and stay armed. Ye, A gun! Just forstarters! Become so proficient with it that it's like an extension of your body! Hone your instincts! Sharpen your senses, especially night vision and hearing. Tell someone where you are going and poss n itenerary. Have a backup plan, redundancies! I don't think anyone's blaming women from wanting to do things like thes, epecially not me! I'm just saying, be realistic that you're not gonna change the fact that there are crazy people out there. Evil is out there everywhere a woman alone. You're putting yourself out there in a situation. Unlike a city setting where you have no recourse, no response team, just you, for Gods sakes be armed. Don't be naive be armed. I don't mean justa knife, I mean a gun! If You are one of these staunch opposers of guns. And you don't like the idea of having a gun, don't be doing thdon't be Going Out there because you're setting yourself up fodisaster.
I don't think they are being blamed but it must be said that evil is walking around you every where. Women are targeted by these people over men because they can be intimated much easier [especially if Alone] than men! A single woman camping alone is A screaming invitation for very much badness. Yes, you can travel alone but just know that your potential for negative encounters is so much higher! It's just a fact! So yes, it is a bit naive to do things such as this alone and stats don't mean anything! Foe her to say that "a woman alone" can be applied to other situations such as every day life like work is essentially childish. In the woods alone,you have nobody who is going to respond. I'm just saying, if you're a woman and want to do things such as this, that's great! But, please, please be responsible and stay armed. Ye, A gun! Just forstarters! Become so proficient with it that it's like an extension of your body! Hone your instincts! Sharpen your senses, especially night vision and hearing. Tell someone where you are going and poss n itenerary. Have a backup plan, redundancies! I don't think anyone's blaming women from wanting to do things like thes, epecially not me! I'm just saying, be realistic that you're not gonna change the fact that there are crazy people out there. Evil is out there everywhere a woman alone. You're putting yourself out there in a situation. Unlike a city setting where you have no recourse, no response team, just you, for Gods sakes be armed. Don't be naive be armed. I don't mean justa knife, I mean a gun! If You are one of these staunch opposers of guns. And you don't like the idea of having a gun, don't be doing thdon't be Going Out there because you're setting yourself up fodisaster.
I don't think they are being blamed but it must be said that evil is walking around you every where. Women are targeted by these people over men because they can be intimated much easier [especially if Alone] than men! A single woman camping alone is A screaming invitation for very much badness. Yes, you can travel alone but just know that your potential for negative encounters is so much higher! It's just a fact! So yes, it is a bit naive to do things such as this alone and stats don't mean anything! Foe her to say that "a woman alone" can be applied to other situations such as every day life like work is essentially childish. In the woods alone,you have nobody who is going to respond. I'm just saying, if you're a woman and want to do things such as this, that's great! But, please, please be responsible and stay armed. Ye, A gun! Just forstarters! Become so proficient with it that it's like an extension of your body! Hone your instincts! Sharpen your senses, especially night vision and hearing. Tell someone where you are going and poss n itenerary. Have a backup plan, redundancies! I don't think anyone's blaming women from wanting to do things like thes, epecially not me! I'm just saying, be realistic that you're not gonna change the fact that there are crazy people out there. Evil is out there everywhere a woman alone. You're putting yourself out there in a situation. Unlike a city setting where you have no recourse, no response team, just you, for Gods sakes be armed. Don't be naive be armed. I don't mean justa knife, I mean a gun! If You are one of these staunch opposers of guns. And you don't like the idea of having a gun, don't be doing thdon't be Going Out there because you're setting yourself up fodisaster.
OK I just got to the end of the video. Realizing that there are predators out there looking for women victims is not meant to incapacitate us or keep us from living, it is meant to alert us to the fact that danger is reality in this life. I have no fear and I go wherever I want I need to go but I do so with wisdom and caution not leaving myself in a situation where I can become a victim. Yes it is unfair that women have to feel this way but we are not in heaven yet and we simply have to deal with the reality that there are psychopaths around and we need to avoid them and identify them, even when they pretend to be friendly to get us to lower our guard. Being like this has not stopped me from living but it has kept me from becoming prey. So when I suggest this to you as an older woman it is only to help you stay safe not to restrict your life. Let’s just say there’s a way to go camping and a way not to. There is a way to use a public ladies room and a way not to. I have so many stories of when guys came after me that I could fill a 500 page book with it. But I thank God that my angels kept me safe and that most of these occasions happened when there was a way of escape and other people around. I’m sad to hear about the girl hiker who went missing. This happens so often lately. Again have no fear just be wise and listen to the soft voice of God when he tells you to go a different way or avoid something. Be safe. Love and peace be with you.
I watch another RU-vidr (female and young) who travels quite often alone in a van and sleeps in isolated places. It makes me very uneasy. Plus she's pretty which could draw attention to herself. But even if she were male, I would feel uneasy. But for whatever reasons, I get an extremely uncomfortable feeling for her. In her videos, she often has her van wide open, she has appeared to even sleep with her back doors wide open. No matter how safe you might feel in a location, you really should take precautions. Because you just never know and sh*t happens....
I think I know who you are talking about, I think it’s not good that she shows this because it can influence younger people incorrectly. I appreciate that this RU-vid talks about the creepiest interacts and how to be safe.
Thank you for sharing and your advice is spot-on. Since I started solo camping as an almost middle-aged woman (mostly across the SW of the US) many people ask me if I carry I gun. (Because unfortunately, Americans seem to love their guns.) My answer is always that my very best weapon is what is between my ears. Using one's common sense and exercising a willingness to trust your intuition are very important, as is knowing it's okay to "not be nice." Two years ago I was trying to find a trailhead in southern Colorado about 5 miles up a mountain road. Three miles in, a man appears out of the woods. He did not "look" like a hiker. Dressed all in black, arms scratched and somewhat bloody, with a large bandage on his forehead. He flagged me down and seeing both his hands were full of random trash, I rolled my window down about 2". He told me he had camped down a side road and his car battery was dead and he needed a jump. I told him if he'd tell me where, I would drive down and call the highway patrol to come and assist him. He seemed startled that I was not willing to accompany him down into the woods, alone. "You won't help me?" Yes, I replied, and "I will help you in exactly the way I've described." Which I did. I got all of the details and drove down to where I had cell reception and called in some assistance for him. I suspect he just a regular person, perhaps down on his luck, living out of his vehicle, but who knows? Regardless, it was a good reminder that even had he "looked" the part, say in regular camping clothes, etc, I would still have needed to react the same way. The fight for equality continues in all aspects of life and adventuring is not exempt. Happy and safe continued travels!
Thank you for the comment “ it’s okay not to be nice”........that resonates with me SO much I have been brought up by my parents to always be polite to people ( which I invariably am) That said, I have encountered too many close calls, none of which I instigated I am in my 50’s now & STILL find it difficult to hold the perpetrator accountable when they are clearly in the wrong. I shall make it my mission ( should I ever need to heed your words again. Hopefully NOT) to convince myself how valid these words are That & I have three dogs to protect me too now
And men say "we're not all bad" like it helps. Of course we know not all men are bad but for the sake of safety, we have to assume they are. So glad nothing escalated in your stories and that you are here and well to tell them!
Very good point about strangers committing only 6% of violent assaults on women. My experience supports this, people I knew assaulted me but I have rarely been assaulted by a stranger. Strangers can be creepy but rarely as dangerous as acquaintances, friends and family. Sad but true.
Strangers can be extremely dangerous. Always be aware of who's out there, have pepper spray, loud body alarm & more on you. Some men see women alone out in isolation as an opportunity to do things they wouldn't normally. Turn the tables on them.
@@kit2130 Thank you for sharing, we obviously cannot agree on this topic. But statistically speaking a woman is more likely to be murdered by someone she knows rather than a stranger
This is so true, and one of the reasons I just go ahead and camp solo despite the potential dangers. I am more likely to be abused staying at home with a partner, statistically speaking (this is in Aus, at least).
To get to the heart ❤️ of this problem, those of us who are men have to do a MUCH better job of challenging and teaching other men (and boys) who show any signs of disrespect towards women and girls. This includes role modelling and supporting each other to challenge gender stereotypes that are unhealthy or unsafe for both men and women. Please be prepared to intervene, directly or indirectly, if you see someone harassing or threatening a woman. The goal is to buy time and create opportunity for the woman to leave or get somewhere safe. That’s right Sir Lancelot, it’s not your job to ‘rescue’ the damsel in distress. Unless they make a specific request, women can take care of that part themselves. If our guy culture is part of the problem then we can and damn well should be part of the solution. Safe travels to all ❤️.
Not safe anywhere there are crazy humans😁. Spend alot of time in nature, and have many stories of being attacked. But it is humans that are dangerous. Bad things happening everyday now, human rights being trampled on. Be well and safe, nice share too.
Hey. Thanks for sharing these, its good to hear these stories from another woman whose had so much experience solo camping. I have had one particularly creepy experience recently, where I was sleeping in the back of my car (a four-wheel drive wagon) in a national park area in Australia. Not a camp ground, but a place on the beach where there were a few other people camping. I arrived before sunset, cooked my dinner, walked on the beach, before retiring to my car to read. A group of men were camped near me. It was fine until one creepy, disrespectful (possibly drunk) man decided he would knock on my car at 1am in the morning to wake me up and ask if I was 'ok'. It really freaked me out, he made me so uncomfortable as I had been fast asleep and it was the middle of the night. I told him I was fine, but he hung around my car on his phone, with his phone light shining through my windows. Then the creepy man finally left and I was drifting back to sleep when he came back, woke me up again, and tried to initiate a conversation with me about where I was from and what I was doing. It was about 2am by this point. I yelled at him, asking him why he kept harassing me while I was trying to sleep. He then walked away from my car but his creepiness had freaked me out, so I left and went to park up at a different beach. Didn't get much sleep that night- but I have camped solo quite a lot over the years, and that was my first unpleasant and creepy experience. There were quite a few other campers around, however, so although it was uncomfortable it didn't feel too unsafe as I wasn't completely alone.
this makes me mad, how this guy thought it had ok to harass you. Disgusting behaviour really, and nobody stopped him which is even worse. Glad you are ok!
@@WildSheGoes Thanks for your kind words. Yes, I was pretty mad too, but I guess as women travellers we (unfortunately) have to experience these kinds of things from time to time. Argh, the patriarchal system that makes men feel it is ok to treat women like this! But I am happy to see lots of us getting out there and doing what we want regardless.
living in a van ( I lived in my van for years with my dogs) , makes you more aware and "street wise" which has to be a good thing, life is not all roses and rainbows ,the reality is that we do have to be aware of risks but that doesn't mean we shouldn't live an adventurous life , I believe in listening to your gut , but also the rules you had are really important too , not leaving your boots outside etc, but really its about choice , everyone should be free to live life the way they want to and not judge others , life is short so we should seize the day xxx
I live in a beautiful tourist town. I've gone hiking alone and have never had a problem, only tourists trying to stop me every five feet asking for directions. 🙄 I think it's horrible that anyone tell a woman not to be independent. I've traveled to and moved to new places totally on my own and they have been the best experiences of my life. We should be changing the narrative and directing the warnings toward the perpetrators. The unsafe experiences I've had have all been around men I knew. Watching videos of women traveling alone helped me to see that the world is a safe place. We just have to stay aware and use our intuition. Great info!💗
Your video did make sense Marina. Well done for sharing your experiences and your thoughts on the subject. Like you said bad things can happen to anyone at anytime. All anybody can do is put things in place to limit the chances of things happening and prepare themselves for the worst but hope for the best. A few tips I always give anyone who wants to travel alone in a van is convert the van out so that you can get access to the driver’s seat from the back of the van without having to get out. Park facing towards the exit of wherever you’ve parked so that you don’t have to reverse your vehicle and never park up so that you could be blocked in. Good to see you happy and well. Keep smiling and stay safe🙂
The guy in Inverness , you should have left and find another parking , he sounded creepy , but you are a brave great woman :) we men are not all bad , but indeed women have a harder time travelling alone .... sorry - warm greetings from Warsaw :)
I am really glad that those events didn't keep you from traveling by yourself and experiencing so many wonderful things! And I'm glad you are safe and that you are continuing your life of freedom and travel in so many different areas.
This is how you travel... good situational awareness. I've run out of several sites because of creepy circumstances but I leave and so it's problem solved.
Being a ex manager who ran a pub on her own , I know exactly what you are saying. We don't all have a man to support us so I did it solo & if I hadn't waited for a man I would never have experience some of the best experiences of pub life. I always trusted my gut 🤗 my next adventure will be camping in my car with my fur baby Amy being a single woman will not stop me living life 😊 I'm very careful & like you I don't put myself in dodgy situations .. Walk away ,drive away but stay safe. I wish you all the very best for 2021 & your video was well detailed thank you for sharing.
Just did a quick search on Esther. I admire her adventorous life hiking around europe as i would love to do what she was doing...i really support and wish more people men, women, solo or couples just living an alternative lifestyle, backpacking, hitchiking or vanlifing around. i pray and send positive thoughts into the universe hoping Ester is ok and turns up safe and sound.
Some of these stories had the hair on my neck stand up. I find it amazing that you do what you do and are not scared. I envy it so much. I don't even like walking alone where I live. I have been chased before and when I was a child someone tried to snatch me at a park and I think it's stuck with me. I even used to hate getting taxis home from being out with friends. Horrible. So yeah, I envy your strength and lack of paranoia. I am very much non trusting 🤣
Thank you for a well balanced and necessary video on some of the potential risks of solo travelling. It’s so important to get your message across that care should always be taken but also not to get over negative about the issue. I so agree with you that blame is often made about the women in these situations rather than dealing with the male side of the problem.
The video showing negative and positive experiences works for me. I believe the 4th guy was looking for an opportunity. The inside of your van was none of his business, and as you say, he seemed to verbally be "fishing" to find out if you were alone. I'm thankful you came through it ok. Here's to many more adventures! 🌻
The one which sticks in my mind is the tragic case of Rachel Nickell. These horrible events tend to make us think that there is a mad axe murderer hiding around every corner, and you have to force yourself to think rationally about the real statistics and the tiny chance of something bad happening.
So glad that everything was ok in the end. Canterbury is normally a lovely place, you will get a few weirdos anywhere you go, I also love the fact that you can swear like a trooper when needed!! :-)
It’s sad to think this is true. I just think of times I’ve felt pretty safe, with my bf, camping in a van, and I’ve worn comfortable pants that pull off and on easily (more comfortable in the car, and easier to pee outside). It’s sad that we should have to pick clothing for its anti-rape properties.
I think it's a very interesting and good video, thank you! But I couldn't sleep at some of the creepy places. When there is a creepy situation with another person then I leave and sleep at another place. Even if the guy leaves he could come back with a friend maybe or alone later ... but it's good to hear that you didn't have a lot of such situations! Greetings from Austria! :)
Thank you for this video. I agree totally. Attitudes on social media, and in the mainstream media, make me feel so cross. They really don’t help anyone.
You definitely seem to have a good intuition anyway! You can never be too careful though, eh? This video was so interesting! Also, IMAGINE saying someone is naive for travelling alone. Like you said, women shouldn't be blamed for the awful actions of men. Boils my blood!
What is intuition good for if you encounter hundreds of people which are stronger and faster than you, while you are alone? I would not even recommend to a man to travel alone, when it comes to guns etc. a single person is totally in the hands of mercy. This is like gambling and it will not end well on the long run - and of course - it is horrible that the world is like this, but it's reality.
That happened in my own parking lot. this guy trying to get to my cars driver side while I was emptying groceries from my car but the key was inside my back pocket and I pushed the red button alarm and he run away. And I leave in very safe Great city.
Not sure if you already have them but a really bight torch and pepper spray (if legal in whatever country) are useful against a stronger opponent. If it ever comes to it. Even as a fairly strong guy I still worry about meeting gangs of kids at night when on bike tours in remote areas. I love night riding in remote areas. A powerful headtorch (when on full beam) helps if it ever comes to it.
Marina you are so wise! I walk and camp on my own and I’m determined not to let fear spoil my adventures. I take precautions like you and use my instincts. It’s such a shame women have to live this way. Mind you I have a teenage son and I’m teaching him how to avoid trouble as well.
This is the first time I've come across your videos, I know this is off topic but I am so very sorry about the loss of your beautiful beloved furbaby. 🐶😢💔 (p.s. thank you for this video, as a woman who travels alone frequently, I do always appreciate tips from others on ways of remaining safe.) 🤗
I just saw ‘Promising Young Women’ at the cinema (here in Australia) and this topic is a strong voice in the movie. I recommend it, it’s brilliantly done and directed, Carey Mulligan is amazing in it and it’s a conversation that needs to be raised more. Keep an eye out for it 🎥. 🌞
😳😅 thank you for sharing your experience!!! I have been debating on taking a journey like you have described, and hearing these raw truths help prepare me. I have learned a lot from your experiences. Thank YOU! 🥲🙏✨🌹🌄
As young girls we were all trained to be “good girls“ or “nice girls”, instead of listening to our inner voices that said that that guy was creepy and made us uncomfortable. Now we are learning to listen to the little voice inside of us instead of trying to make excuses for whatever behaviour was making us nervous. We are also teaching our daughters to heed their instincts now. Someday, maybe enough men will have been taught to stop being assholes and rapists, and we won’t need to live on high alert anymore. We can dream.
A friend of mine works as a driver, and has been doing so for the better part of the last twenty years. When he drove a small van for some courier service, someone tore open the door of his van while he was standing in front of a building in Bonn/Germanyafter a delivery, checking for the next jobs. He got hit with a heavy object and was knocked out instantly. When his sense returned, he was half way on the the passenger seat, the back of his trousers torn and is wallet gone. His phone was gone, the navigation system gone and what goods and stuff were in the back of the van gone. Another time, this time somewhere in northern Italy, he slept in his 40 tonner lorry. He never knew what happened, he woke up hours after the alarm clock went and felt extremely dizzy and sick. Well, long distance drivers have to cope so he geared up for a bad day, and wanted to make some coffee. The Coffee Machine was gone. All valuables were gone. Phone, wallet everything. He got out off the van and found a gas bottle by the side of his lorry with a rubber hose attached. The lorry and trailer had been cracked open and parts of the goods stolen. Apparently someone had very carefully pushed the hose through the door seals and gassed him while he was sleeping, and apparently he got quite a hefty load of the gas as the doctors who checked him soon after he had alerted the police still found his oxygen levels weren't quite okay. He's the kind of bloke you wouldn't pick a fight with. You can see from far you'd easily lose. Happens to them, too. Stay safe, stay healthy, happy 2021, nice to hear and see from you! :oD
@@ignatievamaria Man is not made to be alone. Even a martial arts master is helpless against a well equipped group of criminals (knifes/guns etc.). That is the basic principle of social life - living in couples or groups, but never alone. I would never allow my wife to travel alone like Marina does, I would go insane.
Like most places there are well off parts and not so well off places in Canterbury, I’m glad you are ok, and that you now are locking yourself in, it’s an easy mistake, also, Canterbury is a university city too. Totally agree with your views on women and the perpetrators and the way in which it is reported. Women calculate risks all day everyday, not just themselves but for there children too, if they have them, they are risk assessing all the time.
This was something I was always curious about on your travels. I admire you for being so free and exploring beautiful places. I hope to follow your footsteps here in the America.
I always love your videos-well thought out and researched (regarding strangers)...bigger picture view really drives your argument. Thank you. It’s such a pain to deal with all of my friends and family who try to warn me of dangers! They tend to make me more afraid than the actual stranger dangers out there ... women can’t subscribe to the social fears and blame which keep us down and prevent us from joy and confidence in ourselves...you always make sense!
That was both entertaining and thoughtful, thank you. As I listened to the Inverness encounter, I was also thinking "drugs," but maybe he was waiting for a consignment or transfer, and he might even have thought that you were police.
I hope you ALWAYS have in your pocket a very powerful pepper spray, or better yet, Bear Spray. A taser in a second pocket would also be smart. Monsters stand upright, walk on two legs, and have been among us since time began.
I am so happy you shared your opinion! I totally agree! It is just another version of blaming the victim when the truth is the statistics show that our terrorists most likely live at home with us and we are not to blame for violence against us.
That is why when a woman disappears, or is found murdered...police always look at the husband/boyfriend first and foremost. That's who did it--95/96% of the time. Women need to be extremely careful when choosing a partner. Any early signs of temper, aggression, possessiveness/jealousy...should be a clear warning to avoid that person. It usually will not end well.
Here in the tropical raiforest of Suriname , I never exit my minivan at night. There are lots of anacondas and jaguars. So at night , I enjoy the sky and noises behind my roofwindow that is closed and the other windows covered so nobody can look inside my minivan
As women, basically we should fear those we know rather than strangers. It´s the covetness of men that is the problem, them seeing women as their property. Never been afraid of being alone, afraid of pissing off a man because I´m smarter than they are and THEY DO NOT LIKE THAT. And I refuse to make myself smaller to make them happy.
What a wonderful...bold...confident....informative and reassuring dialogue to have with all the Vanlife community and beyond. You expressed it all with authenticity and truth...facts. That is what is upmost important and needed. Continue to thrive on the side of wisdom and caution. Very proud of your will to share and be of encouragement...so thank you...beaucoup. Wishing you a Happy and Safe New Year of Travels! *Vandie Van 🚐Wings*
Self defense coach told me always pin your hair up, remove your earrings and put on a basketball cap, have on dark pants, shirt and clothing when out alone. It makes you look like a fighter, unattractive, more Tom boyish, intimidating, and not to be messed with, also carry a pepper spray key chain or stun gun, especially when traveling alone. I notice when my hair is pinned up and I'm dressed like this guys never look my way I feel more safer but when it's down or in a ponytail they be giving me a creepy perverted stares. Stay safe. Glad your ok.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. You are spot on. Women should be careful anytime, anywhere with anyone. But don't cower in fear. Build self defense skills. Arm yourself, whether with bear spray, air horn or frying pan, etc. I have been flashed in a laundromat right by my house where I waited for a rug to dry while my mom ran more errands. I have been throttled by a soon to be ex husband, and saved myself by threatening to throw caustic substance at him that just happened to be in my hand. Shit happens anytime, anywhere. But life is what you want it to be. I want adventures with nature and meeting like-minded people. Not boxed up in a senior home waiting to die. Don't let the awful experiences rob you of more wonderful ones ahead of you. The naysayers are voicing their fear and jealousy. Thank them for their concerns and change the subject.
It often works to take photos or at least pretend to, if you are at all worried about people acting strange or making you uncomfortable. But of course the best thing also is to leave asap.
I 💯 in agreement with you. Victims should not be shamed. We all should be free to move around without judgement. Stepping outside your comfort zone is healthy but maintain an intelligent alertness of the risks. Both male and female. Thanks for the video. 👍👍👊
It is unsafe to travel alone, however, everyone can't always stay in their homes and never go anywhere. You should always be careful and aware of your surroundings. Listen to and follow your intuition. I don't travel like you do, but when I do travel, someone always knows where I'm at and I have a somewhat itinerary of what times and everything so that if no one hears from me by a certain time they know when and where to start looking. It is sad it has to be this way but there are too many people out there that can and might harm you that you have to protect yourself.
Nobody as the right to hurt or harass another person be it a man or women. I followed you for years now been a van dweller and you are very very bright and intelligent and strong and I have nothing but administration for you and thanks for the park up tips up fort William 👍 much appreciated,...take care 💪
I watched a video where a police officer explains how difficult it is for women to be harsh and then become easier victims. Specifically, there was a case of a man pretending to have a broken arm and asking for help from women in the parking lot to help him with his bags. All the female victims said he was acting weird, but they felt sorry for him, so they wanted to help. Than he would get them in his van and assault them. Like you said, listen to your gut and if you want to help someone who seems weird, ask help from someone else, too... And learn few punches.. it's good to know few skills. Good luck and have a most amazing year full of wonderful nature and magical people like you are! There are more good people around us, I believe that! ❤️
Fyi... Bear spray is available in small, easy to carry cans, but spraying a creep in the face with your fire extinguisher can also disable someone instantly.
I have seen so many emergency simulation videos in which women were not fast enough, taking out a protection spray. Unless you carry it in your hands or somewhere easily accessible, they are useless. I mean, it is good to have some, but I would not rely on it. Consider that, if she is alone a long time, a potential rapist etc. can wait the whole day for a good moment to attack her.
I love hiking and backpacking alone. It would be amazing if men were more aware of how they are being creepy. It's one thing to say hello or comment on the trail as you pass each other, but once you start commenting on a woman's looks it gets creepy real fast. I wish men would disappear for a few weeks so we can have a break.
I agree. Blaming the victim is wrong and like you said violence can happen to anyone anytime no matter if they are walking in the woods, or going for a jog around the neighborhood, or just walking their dog.
I like your mindset about women traveling alone. My gf is able to withstand *anything* that the world presents her. I like that. Cheees to you, brave woman.
Thank you very much for this sincere video. I‘m from Germany and want to travel by myself in this year for 6 month through south Europe. I‘m not angry but you should be prepared. So thank you for your thoughts and take care and always be safe!!! 🙋🏼♀️🙏🌟
Hi Marina, I just wanted to say thank you for deleting your old video about female solo travel safety and making this one. While your last video was lovely, I do agree that it was just a bit too optimistic. Your outlook in this video sounds much more realistic and I really appreciate you speaking on your experiences! I so agree that we should stop blaming women for wanting to do things themselves. It can be a scary world out there but it can be beautiful too, and we as women have the same right to enjoy this Earth as men do. Thanks again and happy travels!
Thanks for making this video. Very useful resource for all .... and you rightly point out the stats, the need for precautions and the vital truth that victims are not the ones to blame. Society needs to focus on the predators and how to deal with them. Values, morals and education play a major part. Especially in an era when politicians set a poor example of leadership and civic behaviours. But to be positive, *most* folk are decent law-abiding and lovely ...... wishing you a very Happy 2021 ..... 🙂
29:00 YES! THIS. Women shouldn't HAVE to be afraid to do things alone. Men should not be posing such a risk to women. Teach your boys to respect women, to leave them alone, to help them be safe in the world, whenever they are strangers or friends and family. Women have as much a right to walk in the world, to explore and to live, as do men.
Be aware of your surroundings, stay away from known bad areas, like people but be prepared to defend yourself ... if you are not prepared mentally to defend yourself and do it, the situation is lost from the start. Well spoken Marina.
Hi I would not go to a bathroom if I saw a guy standing boxing the air..I would've left. Seriously don't risk it. Glad your ok.sometimes you need to watch the " nice" guys. Always have your guard up no matter where you are and who you meet.
Sounds like you were close to a dangerous situation, good to hear nothing happened. Im quite certain these people won't be doing that again, i hope you were ok, much love ✌️❤️🇬🇧
My creepiest story: I was in a van in parking lot and suddenly I notice a woman in another van throwing trash all over and waving a gun. I'm a nice guy so I decided to pick up the trash, but because she was armed I took off my shirt to show her I'm not a threat. I keep making circles picking up trash and approaching her van when suddenly she disappears. I come up to the van and look inside - maybe she killed herself or has a hostage? I then looked from the other side and herd a rumor, I freaked out and got back to my van. Later on I approached that woman and she turned out to be OK.
Thank you for being open and honest about this aspect of your journey. You definitely have a good head on your shoulders. You are kind but also street-wise - and I, for one, congratulate you!
OH BOY! Good video. I took a 50 day, 2.300 mile bike trip, around the American west. We started out in a group of 9 people with a leader who had made the trip twice before. Three very creepy things happened in the 50 days and all three times I was far from alone. For brevity I will leave out a lot of detail: #1 As we were camping in a group of nine in a city park. Off in the distance (over a football field away) I saw an OBVIOUSLY disturbed young man heading straight for our group. I went straight in my tent. He made a bee line straight to my tent and tried to unzip it in front of the whole group who proceeded to stop him. I was crouched inside with a knife in my hand. It all happened in 60 seconds. The group found this hilarious. I did not. He was incidentally, the local high school football star, who turned to drugs after his great career. #2 One of the women and I were very tired. 50+ miles a day and we couldn't get our periods. We asked the leader if we could rest a day. He said no. The group went on without us and we said we'll catch up. One night of rest was enough. we both got our periods, felt rested and set out to catch up. At a town we went into the only restaurant/bar. A guy with a pickup offered to drive us to the next town where we knew the group was camping. We put our bikes in the truck and off we went for a 20 mile ride. He took a "detour" to "look at some land" down a dirt road. I instantly realized his intentions were not good and since there were TWO OF US I assumed he was armed. I could hear his thoughts and I was terrified. This was reflected in my body language. I immediately spread my shoulders and knees and put my hands on my thighs. He immediately turned the truck around and took us to the group. Never saying another word the whole way. #3 The group broke up. The other woman and I carried on alone to finish the trip. We camped in another city park surrounded by 20-25 other campers including one of the men from the trip who was, like us determined to finish. I got a bad feeling about the local young men in the park when I was on my way to the toilets. Exhausted, I fell asleep in the tent with the big cook pot we carried right next to my head. In the middle of the night I heard a very loud noise! BOOM! Exhausted I went back to sleep. In the morning we got out of our tents, the other woman and I. We discovered that those local young men had been throwing golf balls at us and only us. We were surrounded by 45 golf balls. If the pot had not been right by my head one of them would have hit my face. We continued on and finished the trip. One of the best experiences of my life! Several years later I found a book about two women who took the exact same bike trip we did. The Book is called "Strange Piece of Paradise" By Terri Jentz. She and her companion camped in all the places we did. All the public parks. In one of the parks, a local man ran over both their tents with his pick-up and proceeded to hack them up with an ax. They both survived. One woman was permanently blinded but still became a doctor. He was not caught. Terri Jentz went back some years later and solved the case herself and wrote the book. But by this time the statute of limitations had expired and he was never prosecuted for what he did that night.
king kong - There’s no “state by state” on the statute of limitations on attempted murder (35 years in law)! There’s only corrupted local prosecutors and court systems ... which is VERY evident (or should be) in exactly what’s unfolding before us today!
